Bottleneck?

S

Stimz

Limp Gawd
Joined
Sep 13, 2007
Messages
174
I'm looking to get a new video card and some memory for my 2 year old dell(E510) before I do a 2k build next year. I just used to play wow so 20ish fps was acceptable in that game but now I've moved on to other games and the x600 is not cutting it in newer games such as Orange Box, CoH, 2142 etc.

Specs
Pentium D 820 (2.8GHz)
1g Stock memory(2x 512)
ATI x600
XFI

I'm looking the best bang for the buck video card and was looking at the 8800GT or the 9600gt. What card will have the best performance knowing my processor might be a potential bottleneck? I also do not think my case will fit a duel slot video card without modifications so I was looking at the single slot models but I have heard they run hot.

The stock memory in my computer is ddr2 512x2 and I believe it to be clocked at 533 so most memory I was looking at would get downclocked. I would like to add 2 more gigs. If I get memory that needs more then 1.8v will turning up the voltage harm the stock memory? Any recommendations will be appreciated. Thanks for your time.

-Stimz
 
I don't think that Dell will let you increase the RAM voltage, so stick with 1.8v sticks (like A-Data or G.Skill).

Go with the 9600GT. Its $170 - $20MIR right now at the egg.

You may want to replace your 305W PSU, too. Open your case and post how many amps are available on the +12V rail, please. Thanks.
 
BTW, if you do get that 9600GT card, check your Dell setup to ensure that it has clearance and it will fit in your case.
 
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